How to Clean a Foam Mattress Topper the Right Way

Do you often wake up with muscle aches and pains? If the answer is yes, then maybe the firmness of your mattress just isn’t suitable for you. The other reason why body pains may occur is if you have an old mattress that’s nearing its end. However, instead of splurging on a whole new mattress, a good foam mattress topper can provide you with the rejuvenating sleep you need, but like anything else in your home you need to know how to clean a foam mattress topper.

Mattress toppers add a new level of comfort, but as they are put on the top of your mattress, they are also the first to absorb spills, body oils and sweat. And, if you want to keep your sleeping environment clean and healthy, you need to take care of your mattress topper regularly. 

Keep reading to learn about best practices for cleaning a foam mattress topper!

What is a Mattress Topper?

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A mattress topper is a removable layer that is put on top of your mattress to make the surface softer. As bed mattresses come in different sizes, so do the toppers. You can choose the size that covers the whole bed, or a smaller one for just one side. Mattress toppers also come in different materials and thicknesses. There are foam, latex, polyester, duck down or feather toppers to choose from. 

Foam mattress toppers are among the most popular ones, as they come in a variety of thicknesses and have varying densities for better cushioning and support. They are made from viscoelastic polyurethane. Thanks to this soft material, the mattress conforms to your body when you lay down.

If you tend to overheat during sleeping, you should look for breathable foam mattress toppers. Newer, higher-quality models are now made with gel beads or some other technology that offers a better cooling system. 

Benefits of a Foam Mattress Topper 

There are a variety of reasons why you should choose a memory foam mattress topper — see below for our full list:

Softens a Hard Mattress

In case your bed gives firm back support but lacks a layer of softness, the addition of a topper will help create the perfect balance. Simply put a foam mattress topper over it, and you’ll have the soft cushioning effect you need. 

Relieves Pain in Pressure Points

Memory foam contours to your body shape and provides the needed support. This makes it comfortable for you to sleep in any position and helps you relieve pain in the neck, back, shoulders and more. 

Extends the Life of the Mattress 

A topper will protect your mattress from dust, grime, dead skin and general wear and tear. If you have an old mattress and don’t want to spend money on a new one at the moment, a foam mattress topper can help reduce sagging and extend its lifetime. 

Minimizes Motion Transfer 

Another situation where a foam mattress topper comes in handy is if you have a fidgety partner. If you keep waking up during the night because of your partner’s tossing and turning, a memory foam topper can help to minimize this problem. 

Also, if you and your partner like a different firmness to your mattress, you can buy a topper for just one side of the bed. 

Low Maintenance 

Contrary to other mattress toppers, foam toppers don’t need fluffing or constant flipping. However, it should be cleaned regularly for sanitary purposes. The good news is they are much easier to clean than a full-size mattress. 

How to Clean a Foam Mattress Topper

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Since we spend 7 to 8 hours in bed, a lot of our dead skin cells, sweat and body oils accumulate on mattress toppers. This can create a breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, fungi and other allergens. In order to keep your sleeping environment clean and healthy, you need to maintain your mattress topper regularly. This is not as demanding as cleaning a mattress, as a topper is smaller, portable and flexible.

Read the following steps to learn how to clean your foam mattress topper:

Vacuum Clean 

The first step is to vacuum your topper. Before starting with vacuuming, remove the topper from the bed and place it on the floor. The hard and flat surface will make it easier for you to reach all the corners. Use the soft brush attachment for vacuuming, because a hard one can damage the fabric cover. Handheld or water-based vacuum cleaners are also effective. It’s best to use circular motions, so you can clean all the accumulated dust particles. 

Once you’re done with vacuuming one side, flip it over and repeat the process. 

Spot Clean 

If you notice stains on your mattress topper, you need to pay special attention to them. It’s best to clean the stains immediately as they appear, but even if this is not the case, you can still remove them. 

There are a few different solutions you can make, and it’s up to you which one you prefer. 

White Vinegar Solution 

This solution is very effective. Mix equal portions of white vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle. If you’re dealing with a fresh liquid stain, you should first use a towel to soak up any residual liquid. 

If the stain is not fresh, then take a soft piece of cloth and dip it into the solution. Gently rub onto the stain in circular motions, moving inwards. Once the stains are removed, dip another cloth in clean water and wipe off the vinegar solution. After that, pat dry the area with a clean towel or paper towels. 

Laundry Detergent 

Mix equal portions of mild liquid laundry detergent and water in a bowl. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and rub it on the stain in circular motions. Leave it for 30 minutes. Then take a damp cloth to wipe off the solution. Repeat this a few times to make sure there is no detergent residue on the topper. After that, use a clean dry towel and blot dry the area. 

Sprinkle Baking Soda and Wait 

After applying a solution, the topper may remain wet. To dry it completely, sprinkle baking soda over the entire topper and let it sit for at least 8 hours. It’s important for a topper to be completely dry before returning it to bed. Because of the long drying period, the best practice is to start cleaning in the morning. 

Vacuum and Put it Back

After the baking soda has soaked up the liquid, vacuum the topper one more time and put it on your bed.

The Best Foam Mattress Toppers

Linenspa Memory Foam Mattress Topper

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This is a twin foam mattress topper that is available in 2-inch and 3-inch profiles. It is made of 100% polyurethane memory foam and it has temperature regulating gel beads that dissipate heat. 

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Lucid Memory Foam Mattress Topper

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This is a full-size, 2-inch topper with 5 targeted zones to maximize comfort. The foam is infused with cooling gel to improve breathability. Its premium memory foam is extremely soft, airy and responsive.

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Sure2Sleep Memory Foam Mattress Topper

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If you need a king-size memory foam mattress topper, this is a great option. It is 3 inches thick and it has cool gel swirl-infused memory foam. It will conform to the curves and shape of your body and help reduce aches and pains while you sleep (regardless of sleeping position).

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Bottom Line 

If you have a mattress that is too firm, try using a foam memory topper to provide yourself with a soft and comfortable sleeping surface. Also, you can use a topper to rejuvenate your old bed and avoid spending money on a new mattress in the interim. 

There are so many different memory foam mattress toppers on the market. Take a look at the links we provided or search for other options more suitable for you. 

It’s time you treated yourself to a good night’s sleep!

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